Everyone is trying to cut back on spending these days, but the good news is that you can still eat healthfully and keep your diabetes in check! The foundation of a good diabetes meal plan – beans, rice and whole-grain breads – are some of the most inexpensive foods in the market, says the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

Here’s how to supplement those basics with some healthy add-ons that won’t break the budget:

For snacks, lean toward inexpensivefoods, like popcorn, pretzels and cereal.
Buy vegetables and fruits are in season. In-season items are always cheapest. Plus, learn to cook meals with the changing of the seasons, such as squash in the fall or strawberries in the spring. It will give your diet a lot of color and nutritional variety throughout the year.
Visit a local farmers market. Not only will you get better prices, you will also get pesticide-free and organic options most of the time (just ask the grower). Plus, you’ll probably meet new friends and be able to share some cooking tips.
Use fat-free dry milk for cooking and baking. It’s inexpensive and stays fresh for a long time if the box is refrigerated.

Make and chop your own. Instead of buying more-expensive precut and pre-stirred items, purchase foods whole and prepare yourself – you’ll always get more value. For example, buy cheese in blocks and grate it yourself. Buy (or make) plain yogurt and add your own fresh fruit. It takes a little more time, but saves you money.
Make meat a side dish. You can maintain a healthy (sometimes healthier) diet by making meat the smallest part of the meal and filling up on veggies and grains. You can also factor in a meatless meal a few times a week, or make sure you have soup at least once a week.
Minimize expensive alcohol, sweets and fats. It will be better for your diabetes... and pocketbook.